David Healy addresses Kyle Lafferty sectarian ban after Linfield transfer as he looks for best from 'pain in the a**e'
Th striker's season so far at Kilmarnock has ended in controversy and he's now back home.
David Healy knows that Kyle Lafferty comes with baggage - but he's keen to give his Rangers ally another chance at Linfield.
The pair have known each other for a long time and played together at Ibrox. Following the 35-year-old's release from Kilmarnock, Healy has moved to bring in the forward on a deal until the end of the season. He made his debut in a NIFL Premiership match against Cliftonville but Lafferty has been embroiled in controversy this season.
He copped a 10-game ban for use of sectarian language while on Northern Ireland duty and then Killie boss Derek McInnes was left lamenting his exit after his return from the ban, the board taking it out of his hands after a breach of club rules. But while Healy acknowledges the mistakes his new recruit has made, the Linfield gaffer reckons he can get the best from this venture. He told Belfast Live: “Bringing Kyle in was an easy one, he’s somebody I’ve known for going on nearly 20 years, somebody I’ve always had respect for as a player. Kyle had a huge hand in Northern Ireland qualifying for Euro 2016, albeit that was a few years ago. I know the ability he has. He’ll have better games than what he had against Cliftonville.
“He’s probably not been at his fluent best for a number of months now and he had to soak up his ban. I’ve always had a lot of time for Kyle. He’s a pain in the a**e at times, and by his own admission, he’s made basic mistakes and human errors but that doesn’t diminish his playing ability. The buzz in and around training since he’s come in has been good.
“He’s had an incredible journey in his playing career. He’s a good personality; he’s daft at times of course but he brings a good understanding of dressing-rooms. I’ve no doubt in Kyle’s ability, I’ve no doubt he’ll improve and he’ll prove a good signing towards the end of the season.”